What is BS EN 771-3 - Specification for aggregate concrete masonry units about?
BS EN 771 is a European standard that discusses the specification for masonry units. The main objective of the BS EN 771 series is to provide best industry guidance to determine the quality and performance of construction products and materials such that they contribute to the structural integrity of your civil engineering works.
BS EN 771-3 is the third part of the series that specifies the characteristics and performance requirements of aggregate concrete masonry units made from dense and lightweight aggregates or a combination of both for which the main intended uses are common, facing or exposed masonry in load-bearing or non-load bearing building and civil engineering applications.
The units are suitable for all forms of walling, including single leaf, external leaf to chimneys, cavity wall, partitions, retaining, and basement.
BS EN 771-3 includes aggregate concrete masonry units of an overall non-rectangular parallelepiped shape, specially shaped and accessory units.
Note 1: BS EN 771-3 does not specify standard sizes for aggregate concrete masonry units, nor standard work dimensions and angles of specially shaped aggregate concrete masonry units.
Note 2: BS EN 771-3 does not cover storey height panels, chimney flue linings nor units intended for use as a damp-proof course.
Note 3: BS EN 771-3 does not cover units with an incorporated thermal insulation material bonded to the faces of the unit susceptible to be exposed to fire.
Who is BS EN 771-3 - Specification for aggregate concrete masonry units for?
BS EN 771-3 on masonry units is relevant to:
- Builders
- Architects
- Civil engineers
- Contractors
- Personnel engaged in masonry construction
- Manufacturers of concrete and concrete products
- Quality control personnel
Why should you use BS EN 771-3 - Specification for aggregate concrete masonry units?
Concrete masonry systems are long-lasting and durable, and they can provide an appealing surface as well as be strengthened as needed to fulfil demanding structural applications and provide thermal mass to maintain constant temperatures.
BS EN 771-3 defines the performance related to e.g. strength, density, dimensional accuracy, and provides for the assessment and verification of constancy of performance (AVCP) of the product to BS EN 771-3. The marking requirement for products covered by BS EN 771-3 is also included.
In this regard, BS EN 771-3 provides the best industry recommendations on product description, designation and classification of aggregate concrete masonry units along with the marking requirement.
As a result, you can demonstrate the quality and performance of aggregate concrete masonry units to make sure they are fit for purpose.
Overall, BS EN 771-3 guides you through the manufacturing of aggregate concrete masonry units that can offer effective fire protection, thermal insulation, sound insulation, and sound absorption for your building structures.
